Etymology

Latin monarchia < Ancient Greek μονάρχης (monarchēs), variant of μόναρχος (monarchos), "sole ruler"), from 'μόνος (monos), "only") + ἀρχός (archos), "leader").

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA: /ˈmɒnək/, SAMPA: /"mQn@k/
• (US) IPA: /ˈmɑːnɚk/, SAMPA: /"mA:n@`k/
• Audio (US) ^[?]

Noun

monarch (plural monarchs)

1. The ruler of an absolute monarchy or the head of state of a constitutional monarchy.
   
   * 1598: Never was monarch better fear'd and lov'd Than is your Majesty. - Shakespeare, Henry V, Act II, Scene II, line 25.
   
   
2. A migratory butterfly, Danaus plexippus, found in North America. See w:en:Monarch butterfly.

Synonyms

• king
• potentate
• queen
• sovereign

Derived terms

• monarchy

See also

A monarch can have any of the following titles:

• emperor/empress
• king/queen
• prince/princess
• grand duke/grand duchess

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